http://pikespeakhospice.org/ Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:16:20 GMT Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:16:20 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16633/Small-hands--big-gratitude--kindergarten-class-writes-letters-to-veterans blog Earlier this year, we asked our community for help replenishing our supply of blankets for veteran patients in our care. In early January, we launched a blanket drive requesting new red, white and blue blankets and set an ambitious goal of collecting 100 by March 2. The response exceeded our hopes. With help from coverage in The Gazette, Fox 21, and the power of social media, word spread quickly throughout the community. Knitters, quilters, crocheters, and generous supporters who donated through our Amazon Wish List stepped forward to help. Thanks to that generosity, we have received more than 150 blankets and counting. Each blanket represents comfort, appreciation, and recognition for the veterans we serve. But the drive also led to another wonderful surprise. When Mrs. Cooper's kindergarten class at New Summit Charter Academy heard about the effort, they turned it into a kindness project. The students wrote and colored letters to thank veterans for their service. Their messages, filled with drawings and heartfelt gratitude, have been shared with our veteran patients and have brought many smiles. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed blankets, shared our message, or helped spread the word. And a special thank you to Mrs. Cooper's class for reminding us that kindness can come from even the smallest hands.   Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16633/Small-hands--big-gratitude--kindergarten-class-writes-letters-to-veterans http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16625/Tommy-s-Express-Car-Wash-helps-our-care-teams blog At Pikes Peak Hospice, our care teams travel daily to every corner of our service region to meet the needs of our patients and families, providing expert and compassionate care wherever patients call home. In fact, last year our care team members – nurses, social workers, CNAs, physicians and chaplains – drove 418,854 miles to serve our patients. Their cars are their mobile office, where they document patient visits, transport supplies, consult by phone with physicians, and often where they grab coffee or a bite of lunch. When the folks at Tommy's Express Car Wash learned about how much our care teams are on the road each day, they stepped up – big time. Becoming annual sponsors, Tommy's provides free exterior and interior car washes to our mobile care team members, which, in turn, supports our care teams in providing the best service to our patients, 24-7, 365 days a year. This generous sponsorship not only ensures our mobile employees have clean cars on the outside, but also on the interior, thanks to Tommy's commitment to 15-minutes-or-less interior cleaning services. "When we learned of the powerful work of Pikes Peak Hospice, we knew we could help," said Megan Poe, co-owner of three Tommy's franchises in Colorado Springs (and a fourth on the way). "Treating the nurses and others on the hospice care teams to a clean car, inside and out, gives them a better work environment and lets them know we value the love and care they provide all year to so many patients and families in our community. It's a real honor to support the mission of Pikes Peak Hospice this way." Tommy's has locations at 4089 Tutt Blvd., 4365 Venetucci Blvd., and at 1540 Garden of the Gods Road, which also boasts their total interior cleaning service – the only one of its kind in the city. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16625/Tommy-s-Express-Car-Wash-helps-our-care-teams http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16623/Dr--David-and-Paulette-Greenberg-to-be-honored blog Each year, Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care recognizes a member of the community who makes a positive impact of the lives of residents of our region with our Quality of Life Award, presented at our signature event, Illuminations. Recipients of this award embody positivity by passion for life and their joy of serving others. This year we are thrilled to announce that the Quality of Life Award will be presented to Dr. David and Paulette Greenberg, recognizing a lifetime of service through both professional and volunteer roles. The Greenbergs have been active members of the community for five decades, including founding the Greenberg Center for Learning & Tolerance in 2003. Paulette has served on over two dozen nonprofit boards, including two terms on the Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation board. David has had an illustrious career as a cardiologist, serving as the head of cardiology at Memorial Hospital, (UC Health). Both David and Paulette are longtime champions of heart health, education, community service, and inclusion and dignity for all. The Greenbergs will be recognized at Illuminations, our signature fundraising event, to be held May 6 at the Doubletree Hotel. For more on Illuminations go here.   Wed, 04 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16623/Dr--David-and-Paulette-Greenberg-to-be-honored http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16615/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-3-3-26 blog Today we're grateful to Colorado Springs Town Tidings for featuring Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care in their Community Corner Nonprofit Issue. We're honored to be included alongside so many organizations making a difference in our community. Take a moment to check it out here: https://cos.towntidings.com/p/26-059 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16615/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-3-3-26 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16601/Red--white-and-YOU- blog In early January we asked our community to fill our depleted supplies by donating new red, white and blue blankets to give to veteran patients in our care. We set a wildly ambitious goal of 100 blankets by March 2. Word spread quickly through The Gazette, Fox 21, and social media. And, through the generosity of scores of knitters, quilters, crocheters and folks who gave through our Amazon Wish List, we've received over 150 blankets (and counting)! Thank you! This incredible outpouring demonstrates that we live in a loving community that appreciates our veterans and understands the vital importance of compassion and dignity near end of life. In 2025, we served 458 veterans and performed 125 pinning ceremonies; these gifts of a blanket are cherished by our patients and their families. As one woman shared in response to a Facebook post: "It means so much more than anyone would think to receive a blanket at this time and need in their lives. My mom received a lap quilt that will be passed to her granddaughter who was born days before she passed. Now her granddaughter will have a closeness to someone she never met, that no one else will ever have." To all those who contributed, THANK YOU. And to those still creating blankets, we welcome future contributions of blankets. Many have asked about other ways to support our veteran care. Monetary donations can be made here, and if you wish your gift to be designated to our veterans program, simply indicate in the comments field. PPHPC also seeks veteran volunteers to provide companionship visits with our veteran patients; for more on volunteering go here. Pictured above is Pikes Peak Hospice Veterans Liaison Sonya Bergeron giving a pin and handmade blanket to 100-year-old Russell Brehm, an Army veteran who served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.   Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16601/Red--white-and-YOU- http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16361/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-23-26 blog Thank you, Colorado Springs Town Tidings - News & Events, for sharing the story of Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care's blanket drive for veterans!   Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16361/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-23-26 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16337/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-18-26 blog We're thankful to FOX21 News for sharing our recent call for patriotic blanket donations supporting veterans in our care. At Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, honoring veterans is woven into the fabric of what we do. Through special recognition ceremonies and personalized acknowledgments, we strive to ensure every veteran feels seen, respected, and appreciated. Our current initiative focuses on collecting new red, white, and blue blankets to present to veteran patients receiving hospice services. These blankets are more than a source of warmth — they are a tangible expression of gratitude from the community they served. We are working toward a goal of 100 donated blankets and invite individuals, families, schools, and community groups to participate. Blankets may be handmade or newly purchased, as long as they reflect patriotic colors. To learn more about the initiative, watch the full FOX21 story here: https://www.fox21news.com/news/local/pikes-peak-hospice-looking-for-patriotic-blankets-for-veterans/ We are continually inspired by the generosity of our community. Thank you for helping us honor our veterans with dignity, compassion, and care.   Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16337/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-18-26 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16330/Honoring-service--one-flag-at-a-time blog Yesterday, in observance of Presidents' Day, dedicated volunteers from Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care joined forces with volunteers from Pikes Peak National Cemetery to begin preparations for this year's Flags for Fallen Vets event. Together, they carefully inspected, sorted, and counted nearly 5,000 American flags—each one a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for the men and women who have served our country. This important behind-the-scenes work ensures that every flag is in proper condition and ready to be respectfully placed at Pikes Peak National Cemetery on May 23rd. The annual Flags for Fallen Vets event is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together in honor of our veterans, reflecting on their sacrifice and service. We invite you to be part of this powerful tribute. You can learn more and register to participate at www.flagsforfallenvets.com Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16330/Honoring-service--one-flag-at-a-time http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16326/Thank-you--Empty-Stocking-Fund- blog "Thank you" hardly seems enough. The Empty Stocking Fund raised an extraordinary $1.745 million this season for 20 partner agencies. Because of the generosity of this community, families are housed, children are fed, seniors and veterans are treasured, those who are hurting are comforted, and thousands of people of all ages are provided the dignity, compassion and respect we all deserve. Thank you to Gazette Charities Foundation and all the partners and supporters of this powerful campaign.   Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16326/Thank-you--Empty-Stocking-Fund- http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16308/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-11-2026 blog We're honored to be featured in Beacon Senior News for a story highlighting the heart behind Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care. At PPHPC, hospice and palliative care are about comfort, dignity, and making the most of every moment. From our new 12-suite inpatient care center—designed to feel like home—to our Level 5 We Honor Veterans designation and donor-funded moments that help families create lasting memories, this work is truly about life, not loss. As the only nonprofit hospice in Colorado Springs, we are proud to provide care to anyone who needs it, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. Read the full story here: https://coloradosprings.beaconseniornews.com/2026/01/06/559696/inside-pikes-peak-hospice-nonprofit-hospice-and-palliative-care-in-colorado-springs   Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16308/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-11-2026 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16295/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-10-2026 blog Podcast spotlight! SeniorTalk Podcast features expert conversations on aging, caregiving, senior services, and community resources—and we're proud to share that Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care's own Danielle Smeed was a recent guest on the show, broadcast on KRDO News Radio. In the February 9 episode, Danielle talked about what it truly looks like to care for someone facing a life-limited illness, the supports available for caregivers, and—especially with National Caregiver Day coming up on February 20—why caring for the caregivers themselves is so important. Great job, Danielle!  Listen here: https://krdonewsradio.podbean.com/e/new-2-9-26-src-senior-talk-hospice-and-caregiving-with-support/ Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16295/Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-In-The-News-2-10-2026 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16273/PPHPC-marks-milestones-in-2025 blog 2025 was a historic year for Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, serving more patients than ever before and opening the region's first freestanding hospice Inpatient Care Center. PPHPC served just under 2,000 hospice patients in 2025 – a 14 percent increase from the year prior and 41 percent increase from 2023. Including palliative services, PPHPC served just over 2,500 people. PPHPC President Dawn Darvalics anticipates increasing demand for services in 2026. "On a typical day in 2025 we served about 274 hospice patients – an all-time high for us," said Darvalics. "Some days we reached 300 patients in our care." Darvalics noted that growth in the aging population of El Paso County and continued awareness of the high quality of service PPHPC provides will continue to drive greater demand in the future. PPHPC opened the region's only freestanding hospice inpatient center in late June 2025, and usage of the center's 12 suites exceeded internal projections for the year. "We take this work seriously, and we're careful with the trust families place in us," said Darvalics. "We know how much this moment matters."   Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16273/PPHPC-marks-milestones-in-2025 http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16270/Mother--son-treasure-Broncos-weekend blog It was 15 degrees and snowing outside, yet there was nothing but warmth and smiles inside as Gayle, a patient in the care of Pikes Peak Hospice, settled in to watch the AFC playoffs at home with her son Michael – their first time enjoying a Broncos game together in at least 15 years. Michael flew from his home near Orlando, Fla., to Colorado Springs for the weekend, only his second visit back to Colorado since moving to Florida in 2020. His flight was made possible through Making Memories, a program of Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation that offers patients and families a memorable outing or experience that wouldn't be possible without financial support from the foundation. "It's so nice – like old times," Gayle beamed. "He did the dishes, he's cooking dinner, making sure I get my medicine, just taking care of me." For Michael, the weekend visit was a "peaceful and relaxing" break from his grueling schedule as a resort chef and a welcome opportunity to spend quality time with his mom. The diehard Broncos fans reminisced over the many games they watched together as a family when Michael was a boy and they lived in Denver just a block from Mile High Stadium. Donors to Pikes Peak Hospice Foundation make special family moments like the one enjoyed by Gayle and Michael possible. Gayle was a waitress for nearly 50 years before illness forced her to step back from work. "I appreciate you sending him," said Gayle. "I know I couldn't have afforded it." And while the Broncos ultimately fell to the Patriots, for Gayle and Michael the weekend together was something they'll always treasure.   Wed, 04 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16270/Mother--son-treasure-Broncos-weekend http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16260/Wrapped-in-Red--White--Blue-and-Gratitude blog Red, white, and blue blankets are more than a gift—they're a symbol of gratitude. Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care is inviting our community to help honor veteran patients by donating NEW handmade red, white, and blue blankets for bedside salutes and pinning ceremonies. These blankets offer warmth, comfort, and a powerful reminder that our veterans are seen, valued, and appreciated. Donated new blankets may be dropped off or delivered to Pikes Peak Hospice's offices and Inpatient Care Center at 2550 Tenderfoot Hill St. Interested donors or volunteers may email VolunteerServices@PikesPeakHospice.org with questions. If you knit, crochet, sew—or prefer to help by visiting our Amazon wish list at bit.ly/ForOurVeterans — your support can make a meaningful difference.   Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16260/Wrapped-in-Red--White--Blue-and-Gratitude http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16121/We-re-proud-to-share-that-Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-has-been-named-a-Top-Workplace-by-The-Gazette- blog This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices, dedication, and compassion of our incredible team. Every day, our employees bring heart, purpose, and excellence to their work—and this honor is a direct result of that commitment. If you're looking for a career where your work truly matters, your voice is valued, and your team feels like family, we'd love for you to explore opportunities with us. Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT http://pikespeakhospice.org/blog/16121/We-re-proud-to-share-that-Pikes-Peak-Hospice---Palliative-Care-has-been-named-a-Top-Workplace-by-The-Gazette-